Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher is claiming credit for Romelu Lukaku turning down the offer of a new contract at Everton.
The Belgium international is reported to have snubbed the chance to commit to fresh terms at Goodison Park despite recent claims from his agent that an agreement was close.
Mino Raiola had suggested that a deal was only a matter of time, with Lukaku prepared to sign amid speculation regarding his future.
Talks appear to have broken down, though, with Everton now facing a fight to retain the services of their top marksman.
They find themselves in this position just a few weeks after Lukaku met up with Carragher to perform some media duties at the Toffees’ training ground.
Lukaku has netted 19 times for Everton in the Premier League this season, with that return seeing him lead the Golden Boot race alongside Harry Kane.
With the Tottenham man having picked up an unfortunate injury, the burly Belgian has seen the path partially cleared in his pursuit of an individual prize.
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The Toffees will be looking for him to maintain his prolific record, but will also be aware that his profile continues to rise with each passing performance.
Manchester United, Chelsea and Bayern Munich have all been linked with the 23-year-old frontman, although Carragher would probably prefer to see him cross Stanley Park to Anfield – despite being a boyhood Evertonian.